Lamb Shank Rogan Josh – A Traditional Kashmiri Dish
Lamb Shank Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked, aromatic curry made with tender lamb shanks, infused with fragrant spices, Kashmiri red chilies, and a rich tomato-based gravy. This dish is a classic from Kashmiri cuisine, delivering a deep red hue and a smoky, spicy flavor. The slow-braising process enhances the taste and tenderness, making it a perfect dish for special occasions.
Preparation Time & Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients for Lamb Shank Rogan Josh
✔ 300 ml vegetable oil
✔ 3 bay leaves
✔ 4 black cardamom pods
✔ 6 cloves
✔ 2 medium cinnamon sticks
✔ 1 kg onions (finely sliced)
✔ 6 lamb shanks
✔ 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
✔ Salt (to taste)
✔ 2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
✔ 1 tsp red chili powder
✔ 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
✔ 2 tbsp coriander powder
✔ 700 g tomatoes (chopped)
✔ 1 tsp garam masala
✔ 1/2 bunch fresh coriander root
✔ 2 tbsp fresh coriander (chopped)
✔ 1 tbsp ginger (julienned)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lamb Shank Rogan Josh
1️⃣ Prepare the Base:
Heat a deep cooking pan on high flame and add vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in bay leaves, black cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon to release their aromatic flavors.
2️⃣ Cook the Onions & Spices:
Add finely sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears. Next, mix in salt, Kashmiri chili powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Let the spices cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, allowing them to blend well.
3️⃣ Prepare the Gravy:
Now, add chopped tomatoes and coriander root, then lower the heat. This will create a rich, thick curry base.
4️⃣ Sear the Lamb Shanks:
Meanwhile, take another pan, heat it on high, and sear the lamb shanks on all sides. This step is crucial as it locks in the juices and enhances the texture.
5️⃣ Slow Cook the Lamb Shanks:
Transfer the seared lamb shanks into the prepared sauce and let them cook on low heat for 40-50 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6️⃣ Final Touches:
Once the lamb shanks are fully cooked, sprinkle garam masala and cover the pan with a lid. Let the flavors infuse for a few more minutes.
7️⃣ Strain the Sauce & Serve:
Remove the lamb shanks, strain the sauce using a fine colander, and pour it back over the lamb. Garnish with fresh coriander and julienned ginger before serving hot.
Enjoy this flavor-packed Lamb Shank Rogan Josh with steamed basmati rice or naan for a truly indulgent meal!
